The situation surrounding Xavi Hernandez and his future at FC Barcelona has been dominating the headlines in recent weeks.
The 44-year-old has already confirmed his decision to step down from his managerial position at the end of the season.
However, since that announcement in January, Barça have been on a terrific run of form, prompting the club administration, led by president Joan Laporta, to make all efforts to convince him to continue.
The general indication has been that despite the efforts of the club, Xavi does not plan on staying. But those inside the dressing room are seeing things differently.
Indeed, as per journalist Alex Pintanel, the Barcelona locker room is growing in confidence and belief with each passing day that Xavi will stay on as the manager beyond this season.
As per the update, there are footballers within the dressing room who believe that the 44-year-old club legend will change his decision and continue as manager.
The players see Xavi working with renewed energy and vigour in recent weeks, with a different spirit. They feel that the former midfielder has liberated himself and the team from the pressure, which is supported by the upward trend in performances and results.
Without a doubt, the Barcelona team has taken a step forward in terms of their on-pitch displays since Xavi’s announcement in late January – eight wins, three draws, zero losses, 22 goals scored and only seven conceded.
As mentioned earlier, the Barcelona hierarchy led by club president Laporta himself, wishes for Xavi to continue. Vice-president Rafa Yuste as well as sporting director Deco support that view and have spoken in public about the same.
Xavi, for his part, has continued to say no to such a possibility, although some of his recent responses when asked about his future suggest there may be a change of stance.
However, as per reports, the 44-year-old will likely set some conditions if he is to reverse his decision and stay on as manager.
Either way, there is a sense of belief within the dressing room and the club that Xavi might continue, especially if the Blaugrana end the season strongly.
